Rhapsodi Affos Blog RAB Reporter 

A civil society group, Concerned Youths Progressive Forum, has petitioned the Governing Council of the Federal University, Wukari (FUW) over what it described as a faulty, biased, and non-transparent process in the ongoing selection of a new Vice Chancellor for the institution.

In a petition dated January 5, 2026, and signed by the group’s chairman, Abubakar Sambo, the forum expressed disappointment over what it alleged were irregularities in the shortlisting and invitation of candidates for the position.

The group claimed that the process was allegedly driven by favoritism, rather than merit, adding that several qualified candidates with proven academic and administrative credentials were reportedly sidelined. According to the petition, the Governing Council was accused of concentrating on candidates whose professorial status was described as questionable.

The forum further alleged that the criteria used for shortlisting candidates were unclear and not communicated to stakeholders, describing the process as lacking inclusivity and transparency.

The petition also referenced the postponement of the interview session earlier scheduled to hold, noting that the development followed public outcry and confusion surrounding the selection process. The group said the suspension of the interview suggested that stakeholders were unwilling to accept the process without a proper review.

Concerned Youths Progressive Forum called on the Governing Council to halt the selection process, review the list of shortlisted candidates, and ensure that only individuals who meet established academic and professional standards are considered.

The group also demanded that all qualified candidates be included in the interview process and that the exercise be conducted transparently and in line with the university’s rules and regulations. It further urged the council to publicly outline the criteria guiding the selection to restore confidence in the process.

In the petition, the forum warned that the integrity and credibility of the Federal University, Wukari, were at stake if the issues raised were not addressed.

The group also called on the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission (NUC), the Department of State Services (DSS), and other relevant stakeholders to investigate the matter and ensure that the appointment process is fair, transparent, and merit-based.

As of the time of filing this report, the Governing Council of the Federal University, Wukari, had not issued an official response to the allegations.